Why do I feel like people are trying to trick me?

Ever feel like everyone’s out to get you? Like people are constantly trying to pull one over on you? You’re not alone. This nagging suspicion that others are trying to trick you is more common than you might think.

There are a few reasons why you might be feeling this way. First off, our brains are wired to look for threats. Back in caveman days, this kept us alive. Now, it can make us overly suspicious. We’re always on the lookout for danger, even when there isn’t any.

Past experiences play a big role too. If you’ve been lied to or manipulated before, you might be extra cautious now. It’s your brain’s way of trying to protect you from getting hurt again.

Sometimes, low self-esteem can make us feel like we’re easy targets. We might think we’re not smart enough to spot trickery, so we assume everyone’s trying to fool us.

The media doesn’t help either. We’re constantly bombarded with stories of scams, fraud, and deception. It can make the world seem like a pretty untrustworthy place.

Stress and anxiety can also warp our perception. When we’re overwhelmed, we might see threats where there aren’t any.

It’s worth noting that in some cases, this feeling might be a sign of a mental health issue like paranoia or social anxiety. If it’s seriously impacting your life, talking to a professional could help.

So what can you do about it? Start by taking a step back. Ask yourself if there’s real evidence that someone’s trying to trick you. Often, we jump to conclusions without proof.

Try to give people the benefit of the doubt. Most folks aren’t out to get you – they’re just living their lives, same as you.

Work on building your self-confidence. When you feel good about yourself, you’re less likely to think others are trying to take advantage of you.

Lastly, surround yourself with trustworthy people. Having a solid support system can help you feel more secure in your interactions with others.

Remember, it’s okay to be cautious, but don’t let suspicion rule your life. Most people are just trying to get by, not trick you. By understanding where these feelings come from, you can start to overcome them and enjoy more positive relationships with others.